[Acrylic-bob]

Of course they get paid, what do you think happens to all the money that is paid by the thousands of ordinary runners in entrance fees? It goes to support the careers of people like Ms Radcliffe. Who, it might be pointed out, when asked to run for her country in the recent Olympics, collapsed in floods of tears to the disappointment of many of her teammates and the entire country. The reasons given for her refusal to complete the race on that occaision make not one grain of sense, unless you take into account the politics of the British Olympic team.

People like Paula Radcliffe know only one loyalty, and unfortunately it is not encompassed by the phrase "it is not the winning it is taking part that matters".

Sadly, Athletics is now a career choice like any other and is no longer the sole preserve of the amateur. We have lost something of irreplacable value here and no one seems to realise it or even care.

Would I like to see an Accrington or Hyndburn marathon? Yes, but only if it was free to enter and run solely for the honour of taking part.